The Kaizer Chiefs captain came under lot of criticism early in the season following what was described as under-par performances. On Saturday though he showed glimpses of returning to his old self-doing a sterling job in marking out of the game dangerman, Teko Modise.

“Jimmy has got nothing to prove having captained both Chiefs and Pirates. He is experienced and as his co defenders he has been very helpful. He did tremendously well again today for the team,” said the player affectionately known as “Djemba-Djemba”.

Rooi also emerged on Saturday having come under lot of critics following the 2-all draw against Mamelodi Sundowns last month. Playing alongside reliable, Thomas Sweswe on Saturday, Rooi was at his best as he kept both Katlego Mashego and Thulasizwe Mbuyane at bay.

“It is always expected that you play well every time you don the black and gold jersey. I did not do well against Sundowns but I knew that I have nothing to prove against Orlando Pirates. I focused on improving rather than dropping my head. Thanks to the Technical Team and my teammates for lifting up my spirits,” he said.

Reflecting on the game, Rooi said both teams did not go all out to attack, “there is no doubt that we could have won the game with the number of chances we created. I do feel though that both teams did not go all out to attack each other. At the end we got to be satisfied with a point.”

Rooi is expected to keep his place against his former team, Mpumalanga Black Aces at Puma Stadium on Wednesday.

“I am looking forward to the game just like any other game in the Premier League. Playing Aces is as special as playing any other team and the most important thing for all of us is three points,” he concluded.

Kick-off for the game against Mpumalanga Black Aces is at 19h30.